Wecoma Place increasing affordable housing options

A celebration is planned for noon this Friday, Aug. 16, at Lincoln City’s latest affordable housing complex, Wecoma Place, located at 2133 NE 29th Street.

“The opening of this new affordable housing development marks a significant milestone for our community,” Housing Authority of Lincoln County Executive Director Karen Rockwell said. “It not only provides safe and secure homes for many families, but also fosters a sense of hope and belonging. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community.”

Stewardship Development, Housing Authority of Lincoln County, Cornerstone Community Housing, Umpqua Bank, National Equity Fund, Otak Architecture, and Walsh Construction partnered in the housing development project.

Wecoma Place will provide 44 units of 100 percent affordable housing. The complex is made up of one and two-bedroom units at 60 percent and 30 percent area median income. The goal of this project is to provide housing for people affected by the Echo Mountain fire and the residents of this community, according to developers.

The Lincoln County Leader reached out to the Stewardship Development and the Housing Authority of Lincoln County team of Amanda Perkins, Becky Morley and Natalie Foglio, for insight into this housing development.

Lincoln County Leader: When did construction for this project begin and what is the square footage of the project?

Amanda Perkins, Becky Morley and Natalie Foglio: Construction began in November of 2022. The building’s square footage is 35,155 square feet.

Lincoln County Leader: What is the overall building cost of this project and how has it been funded?

Perkins, Morley and Foglio: The overall cost of this project is $18,998,320. The project was awarded a 9 percent disaster housing tax credit as well as a wildfire direct and general housing account program grant from Oregon Housing and Community Services. Construction lending is provided by Umpqua Bank; permanent financing is through NOAH.

Lincoln County Leader: Describe the apartments and the price range of the units?

Perkins, Morley and Foglio: The four-story building includes a vibrant community space, an elevator, a community courtyard with raised garden beds, and onsite parking. The apartments are a mix of one and two-bedroom units. Units are bright and airy with open living spaces and several windows to maximize natural light. Apartments include energy efficient appliances and fixtures, Corian countertops, and luxury vinyl plank flooring.

There are a total of 41 units, three of which are accessible units. For 36 of the 44 total units, monthly rents are $688 for one bedroom and $847 for two bedroom. The eight remaining units have received Project Based Vouchers from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; residents with these vouchers may only pay up to 30 percent area median income rent.

Lincoln County Leader: Is there a signup list for the units?

Perkins, Morley and Foglio: The building is nearing full capacity, but anyone wishing to apply may do so, and approved applicants will be placed on a waiting list. The Housing Authority of Lincoln County is the property manager at Wecoma Place and all applications are processed through them. You can reach out via email at info@housinglincolncountyor.gov Priority is given to any approved applicants who have been displaced due to wildfire devastation.

Lincoln County Leader: What do you believe is the significance of this project considering the city’s need for affordable housing?

Perkins, Morley and Foglio: Wecoma Place is a crucial development for Lincoln City, addressing the significant shortage of affordable housing in our community. The scarcity of affordable options has been a pressing issue, leaving many low-income individuals and families struggling to find secure, stable living environments. This project not only meets the immediate housing needs but also contributes to the long-term growth and stability of the community.